14.09.12
A&E closures ‘lack regard’ for local residents
Proposals to close A&E units in north west London have been labelled “flawed” by Hammersmith and Fulham (H&F) Council.
The plans would see four of the area’s nine emergency units close, to create bigger centres and improve services. The closures would include shutting down A&E at Hammersmith and Charing Cross hospitals.
Medical professionals have stated that larger hospitals will be able to provide better care for patients.
H&F Council commissioned a report, conducted by former senior NHS executive Tim Rideout, which found the plans have a “lack of regard” for the borough’s residents, who would now have to travel to reach A&E services.
Cllr Nick Botterill, leader of Hammersmith and Fulham Council, said: “We believe they’ve come up with a wrong option as a result of a flawed consultation process. We’re not going to let this rest; we're going to make sure that this whole decision is called in, and that the matter is referred to the secretary of state.
“The impact of these changes will have a profoundly adverse impact on our residents and I believe my duty is to stand up for our residents.
“It’s flawed as it looks at north-west London as a whole, and not the individual boroughs and density of populations.”
The Shaping a Healthier Future proposals are subject to a formal consultation which closes on October 8.
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